William Shatner will forever be synonymous with the role of Captain James T. Kirk from the Star Trek franchise. The sci-fi series turned Shatner into an icon, with the character’s popularity impacting the veteran actor’s legacy. However, Shatner revealed in an interview, the real legacy he wishes to leave behind.
At the same time, Shatner confronted his mortality by sharing a chilling story about death. The actor discussed how he feels talking about mortality on camera. His story will certainly make us question the limited time we have on our hands. Here is what Shatner had to say about death and mortality.
Star Trek alum William Shatner shared a chilling story about death and mortality
Actor William Shatner rose to prominence as Captain Kirk in the sci-fi series Star Trek. Since his breakout role, Shatner has enjoyed a long career and recently turned 94. The actor also launched a documentary, You Can Call Me Bill, which explores his lengthy career and personal life.
Shatner sat down for an interview with IGN, during which the veteran actor discussed the documentary. Through the documentary, he shed light on his honest conversations about confronting death and mortality.
The 94-year-old actor had the following to say about wrestling more and more with the idea of death as he grew older:
And you get to a certain age, you think, “Wait a minute, am I dying?” You don’t know when you’re dying, until what?
Shatner added that he began questioning his mortality after the death of his friend, who passed away in the company of her daughter.
Shatner recalled the mother admitting she was dying with incredulity moments before passing away. As a result, the chilling story made Shatner question his limited time, leading to his honest conversation on the topic in his documentary.
William Shatner revealed the legacy he wants to leave aside from Star Trek
During the same interview, Shatner also discussed the documentary as something he wants to leave behind for his children. At the same time, Shatner, whose character proudly talked about cheating death in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, revealed the legacy he wants to leave behind.
Shatner explained that he never completely grasped the idea of legacy, especially since he thought they did not last. The actor felt that monuments of legacy could easily be taken down. As a result, he wanted to leave behind something different.
Shatner admitted to accepting the documentary because he wanted to leave behind something tangible for his children, stating:
I can leave my kids is this documentary and the knowledge that your legacy is based on the good things you do in your life.
From Shatner’s words, it is clear that he wants to leave behind the message of doing good deeds and making a difference in the world as his real legacy. Despite admitting the fame will one day run out, Shatner will remain synonymous with his Star Trek role, which will also undoubtedly form a part of his legacy.
Star Trek movies and shows are now streaming on Paramount+ (USA).
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